Gender identity disorder

Definition

Gender identity disorder is a conflict between a person's physical gender and the gender he or she identifies as. For example, a person identified as a boy may actually feel and act like a girl. The person is very uncomfortable with the gender they were born.

Alternative Names

Causes

People with gender identity disorder may act and present themselves as members of the opposite sex. The disorder may affect:

Choice of sexual partners

Mannerisms, behavior, and dress

Self-concept

Gender identity disorder is not the same as homosexuality.

Identity conflicts need to continue over time to be a gender identity disorder. How the gender conflict occurs is different in each person. For example, some people may cross-dress while others want sex-change surgery. Some people of one gender privately identify more with the other gender.

People who are born with ambiguous genitalia, which can raise questions about their gender, may develop a gender identity disorder.

The cause is unknown, but hormones in the womb, genes, social and environmental factors (such as parenting) may be involved. This rare disorder may occur in children or adults.

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary by age, and are affected by the person's social environment. They may include the following:

Exams and Tests

The feeling of being in the body of the "wrong" gender must last for at least 2 years for this diagnosis to be made. A history and psychiatric evaluation can confirm the person's constant desire to be the opposite sex. The person's partner choices may be same sex or opposite sex.

Treatment

Individual and family therapy is recommended for children to create a supportive environment at home and in school. Individual and, if appropriate, couples therapy is recommended for adults. Sex reassignment through surgery and hormonal therapy is an option, but identity problems may continue after this treatment.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Diagnosing and treating this disorder early can reduce the chances of depression, emotional distress, and suicide.

Possible Complications

Depression or anxiety

Emotional distress

Feeling alone

Poor self-concept

Suicide

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Make an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of this disorder and want help, especially with anxiety and depression.